Montgomery County Soil Data
Montgomery County, Iowa
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
6.3
Texture
Silty clay loam
Drainage
Well drained
Organic Matter
3.3%
Hydrologic Group
C
Data Story
About Soil in Montgomery County, Iowa
Mollisols and Silty Clay Loams
Montgomery County is defined by its silty clay loam texture and the highly fertile Mollisol order. The average pH is 6.26, which is more acidic than the national median of 6.5 and the state average of 6.43. This acidity is common in areas with high historical rainfall and deep prairie roots.
High Silt Content and Clay Balance
The soil contains 56.1% silt and 28.4% clay, with a relatively low sand content of 15.5%. This composition creates a dense soil that is excellent at holding nutrients but can be slow to warm up in the spring. It provides a stable environment for large-scale row cropping.
Exceptional Water Storage Capacity
The available water capacity of 0.207 in/in is significantly higher than the state average of 0.195 in/in. While the organic matter of 3.33% is slightly below the state average of 3.81%, it remains very healthy compared to national figures. This soil is a champion at sustaining plants through dry Midwestern summers.
Well Drained Land with Group C Hydrology
Classified as well drained, these soils move water effectively through the top layers despite being in hydrologic group C. Group C suggests a slower infiltration rate deeper down, which can lead to runoff on sloped land. For homeowners, this means good garden drainage but a need for erosion control on hills.
Thriving in the Zone 5b Climate
Montgomery County's Zone 5b climate and high water capacity are perfect for thirsty crops like tomatoes and peppers. Perennial flowers and shrubs also thrive in the stable silty clay loam. Your garden will benefit from this soil's natural ability to store moisture for the long haul.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Group C — Moderate-High Runoff
Soils with slow infiltration rates, often with a layer that impedes downward water movement. Higher clay content restricts drainage.
Drainage Class
Well drained
Water is removed from the soil readily but not rapidly. Optimal for most plants and construction.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Silty clay loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Clay Soil Detected
Clay soils can struggle with drainage. These products improve soil structure and water flow.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Montgomery County have?
Montgomery County's soil is classified as Silty clay loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 16% sand, 56% silt, and 28% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Montgomery County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Montgomery County's soil has a pH of 6.3, which is moderately acidic. This range suits many crops and is common across much of the eastern US.
What is the drainage class for Montgomery County?
Montgomery County has a dominant drainage class of "Well drained." Well-drained soils allow excess water to move through quickly, reducing waterlogging risk and supporting most field and garden crops.
What crops or plants grow well in Montgomery County's soil?
Based on Montgomery County's Silty clay loam texture, pH of 6.3, and Well drained, the soil is well suited for vegetables, grains, and most field crops, row crops and vegetable gardens, most annual and perennial crops.
What USDA soil order is found in Montgomery County?
Montgomery County's dominant soil order is Mollisols. Mollisols are fertile, dark-colored soils that formed under grassland vegetation. They are among the most productive agricultural soils in the world.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Montgomery County
Soil Verdict
Montgomery County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Montgomery County closely matches the Iowa average hardiness conditions.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Montgomery County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in Iowa
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.